News in brief

FCB set for best group stage of all time

Created on 08-12-2013 at 14:45 PM

On Tuesday evening, Bayern may become the sixth team to complete the group stage of the Champions League with maximum points (18). So far, only AC Milan (1992/93), Paris Saint-Germain (1994/95), Spartak Moscow (1995/96), FC Barcelona (2002/03), and Real Madrid (2011/12) have been able to match this. However, to beat Real's goal difference record (F19, A2), Bayern would have to beat Man City by four goals. A narrow defeat would be enough to set a new club record for best group stage: FCB's best performance up to now is 15 points and 16-6 goals (2010/11) – the current situation: 15 scored, two conceded.

Stronghold Allianz Arena

After the 3-1 victory in Manchester, a 2-0 loss would suffice for Bayern to complete the group stage in first place. However, the Allianz Arena is a virtually impregnable fortress: this season Bayern have won all 11 home matches, scoring 32 goals and conceding only five in return! The last match FCB lost at home was in September 2008 (5-2 to Bremen in the Bundesliga) – this result would be enough for Man City to take first place in the group. What's more, Bayern only lost two of the last 22 Champions League home games, and have gone the last 365 minutes in the Champions League without conceding any goals.

Spaniard in charge of clash for group victory

David Fernández Borbalán from Spain will officiate at the home match against City. This is the first Bayern match of the current season for the 40-year-old. Borbalán already has some experience with German teams: both Borussia Dortmund and Schalke 04 won their respective matches with the Spaniard as ref.

Fourth duel with Man City

Bayern and Manchester City cross swords for the fourth time in a competitive match. Statistically, Bayern have the edge with two victories and one defeat. This summer FCB also won the Audi Cup final 2-1 against City in Munich.

Guardiola pleased with DFB Cup ftaw

Pep Guardiola is satisfied with the DFB Cup last eight draw. “We are quite fortunate,” the FCB coach said on Monday. “This Saturday we will have a good opportunity to get to know HSV in the Bundesliga.”

Quote of the day

“No chance!”(Pep Guardiola's reaction to a rumour from England, stating that Champions League opponents Manchester City plan to lure Germany national goalkeeper Manuel Neuer from Bayern for €48 million)